bit rate

noun

variants or less commonly bit-rate
ˈbit-ˌrāt How to pronounce bit rate (audio)
or bitrate
: a measure of the speed of data processing usually calculated as the number of bits per second
MP3 measures compression settings in terms of a file's bit rate—the average number of bits required for one second of sound.— Jim Heid

Examples of bit rate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The unpaid level reduces the video bit rate but maintains 2K resolution at a 30fps capture rate (1080p and 720p are also available if your bandwidth is limited). — PC Magazine, 26 Mar. 2025 Granta’s anti-jamming approach switches to a lower bit rate. — David Hambling, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bit rate was in 1968

Rhymes for bit rate

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Browse Nearby Words

bit player
bit rate
bit rot
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Cite this Entry

“Bit rate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bit%20rate. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

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